Siskiyou County Assessor Mike Mallory is getting the word out to taxpayers that relief is available for property owners who suffered damage during recent snowstorms in southern Siskiyou County.
California Revenue and Taxation Code Section 170 provides property tax relief to taxpayers whose property was damaged or destroyed by no fault of their own, according to a press release from Mallory.
If the extent of the damage is found to exceed $10,000, assessed values will be reduced proportionately until such time as repairs are accomplished, he said.
The adjustments will result in either a refund of a portion of the 2009-10 property taxes (if already paid in full) or a reduction to the second installment.
Once repairs are made, the current assessed value will be restored.
Mallory indicated that his office is working with the different jurisdictions in Siskiyou County to identify properties which sustained major damage. While many of these owners have been contacted directly and provided with the necessary claim forms, Mallory said he is concerned that damage to some properties in the outlying areas may not be evident, making it difficult to inform owners of the claim process.
Taxpayers who suffered damage are encouraged to contact the Siskiyou County Assessor’s Office at 530-842-8056 to initiate the process. Claim forms will then be sent via U.S. Mail or can be provided by e-mail if desired.
Yreka, Calif. —
